Forum for Science, Industry and Business

Fraunhofer-Institut Elektronenstrahl- und Plasmatechnik

The Fraunhofer Institute for Electron Beam and Plasma Technology FEP conducts research and development into processes for using electron beams and plasma in production processes. The prime objective is to prepare new technologies for practical use. The use of high-power electron beams and high-density plasma gives an innovative impetus to surface engineering.

Typical applications at the Fraunhofer FEP include surface treatments such as modification and coating at high rates and over large surface areas by means of vapor deposition and sputtering. The main emphasis of the Institute´s work lies in process research and process control, including all the related subjects such as monitoring, quality control, reproducibility, scaling up and cost-efficiency. New paint systems can be tested on a large-scale facility. A particular specialty is the complex testing of integrated packages. For instance, dual-magnetron systems up to a length of 3,700 mm can be tested closely at the Fraunhofer FEP to determine how they will perform in production.

Numerous scientists who are well known internationally in this specialist area have assumed supervisory positions. The Institute possesses extensive experience in putting scientific results into production practice. Companies from the fields of metallurgy, packaging, glass processing, microelectronics, the automotive industry and mechanical engineering are already customers. Participation in various government-funded programs has made the necessary advance research possible.